Experts believe that some behaviors can put preteens and teens at greater risk for getting meningitis, including5:
- Sharing drinking glasses, water bottles, or eating utensils
- Kissing
- Smoking or being exposed to smoke
- Living in close quarters, such as overnight camp or dormitories
Meningococcal Disease / Meningococcal Meningitis
Although rare, meningococcal disease may progress very quickly, possibly leading to shock and even death within 24 hours.2
Between 1000 to 2600 people get meningococcal disease (often called meningitis) each year in the US.3
Meningococcal disease is caused by bacteria that can result in meningitis (swelling of the lining surrounding the brain and spinal cord) and/or bloodstream infection.2
About 10 percent of people who get meningococcal disease will die.4 Death rates from meningococcal disease are up to 5 times higher among teenagers and young adults (15 through 24 years of age) compared with younger age groups. Up to 1 in 5 survivors are left with long-term disabilities, which may include5,6:
- Loss of arms, legs, fingers, or toes
- Severe scarring
- Brain damage
- Hearing loss
- Kidney failure
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends meningococcal vaccine for all preteens and teenagers 11 through 18 years of age.7
Early symptoms of meningococcal disease can be confused with the flu, but this disease can be much more severe.4,5
- Severe headache and/or a high fever
- Sensitivity to light
- Feeling confused and appearing "out of it"
- A stiff and painful neck
- Vomiting (along with these other symptoms)
- Purple spots that don't turn white when pressed
- Hands and feet feel cold, numb, or have a loss of feeling
- Seizures or convulsions
